Grenada’s new member of the Tourism Commission gathered more than 20 signatures to support her appointment, but the board’s bylaws don’t say that’s a legitimate reason.
According to Shoney’s Manager Karen Williams, she collected signatures from throughout the restaurant and hotel communities, including signatures from management at Wendy’s, KFC and Western Sizzlin’.
Williams, who was sworn in last week by Board President Steve Robinson, has 22 years experience in the restaurant business. She replaced board member Gary Worsham, who resigned prior to a meeting earlier this month.
Williams said she learned about the open position through “general talk and the media.”

Bylaws
Williams is clearly qualified to hold the position, but the board did not follow parliamentary procedure in making her appointment, according to the bylaws.
“I have outstanding hospitality and years of experience in the industry,” said Williams. “I welcome anyone to be part of our Grenada family.”
The practice of collecting signatures from throughout the community to stand in place of a committee vote is long-standing in the Tourism Commission, according to members past and present.
“This is the way we’ve done it for years,” said Robinson. “I think it’s fair and reflects the interest and will of the community.”
Past President Steve Gard agreed.
“This practice has been in place for some time,” said Gard.

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